Honkai Star Rail 4.0 Countdown: Release Date, Planarcadia & Banners
2026-02-11

Honkai: Star Rail is entering a new chapter, and Version 4.0 is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated updates so far. With a brand-new world, fresh gameplay mechanics, and highly discussed character banners, players across the community are counting down the days.
If you’re tracking leaks, livestream details, or planning your Stellar Jade savings, this guide from BuffBuff.com breaks everything down clearly and efficiently.
Honkai Star Rail 4.0 Release Date (Expected Timeline)
Every major Honkai: Star Rail update follows a fairly predictable schedule, which makes it easier to estimate when the next version will arrive. Version 4.0 continues this pattern, placing it firmly on players’ calendars as a milestone patch. Understanding the expected release window helps players prepare resources, manage time, and plan banner pulls in advance.
Based on HoYoverse’s consistent six-week patch cycle, the Honkai Star Rail 4.0 release date is expected on release on February 13, 2026. Please note that the HSR 4.0 release time may vary across servers due to regional maintenance schedules.
| Server | Release Date |
| North America | Feb 12, 2026 10:00 PM (UTC/GMT-5) |
| Europe | Feb 13, 2026 4:00 AM (UTC/GMT+1) |
| Asia | Feb 13, 2026 11:00 AM (UTC/GMT+8) |
| MO, HK, TW | Feb 13, 2026 11:00 AM (UTC/GMT+8) |
Honkai Star Rail 4.0 Maintenance Schedule Asia
Maintenance timing is especially important for players on Asian servers, as it directly affects login schedules and event planning. Knowing when servers go offline can help you avoid missed rewards or unfinished activities.
Like previous updates, Version 4.0 will follow HoYoverse’s established maintenance routine.
For players on Asia servers, the Honkai Star Rail 4.0 maintenance schedule usually follows this structure:
- Maintenance begins early morning (UTC+8)
- Servers remain offline for approximately 5 hours (06:00–11:00 AM UTC+8)
- Update becomes playable once maintenance is completed
HoYoverse will confirm exact timings before launch, but planning around early morning UTC+8 is generally safe.

HSR 4.0 Livestream Time & Rewards (UTC+8)
Before any major update goes live, HoYoverse hosts a special preview livestream to reveal upcoming content, and the Honkai: Star Rail 4.0 Livestream was held on February 6, 2026.
This broadcast is often the first official source for banner confirmations, new characters, and major gameplay changes.
For players following Star Rail leaks, the livestream is where speculation becomes confirmed information.
- Official banner announcements
- Gameplay previews of the HSR new character
- Redeem codes for Stellar Jades
- Story teasers for the upcoming region
- Time-limited livestream codes
Planarcadia New World
One of the defining features of a major X. 0 update is the introduction of a new explorable world. Version 4.0 delivers this with Planarcadia, a setting that immediately stands out in both visual design and narrative direction.
Compared with earlier regions, this world appears to prioritize layered environments and thematic storytelling.
The Planarcadia New World is rumored to feature:
- Multi-level map exploration
- Unique enemy factions
- A narrative shift with deeper cosmic lore
- Creative visual design
For players who enjoy exploration-heavy gameplay, Planarcadia may become one of the most memorable locations yet.
Version 4.0 The Elation Path Explained
Combat evolution is another highlight of Version 4.0. Alongside new characters and enemies, HoYoverse is introducing an entirely new path that could reshape team-building strategies.
This addition is especially exciting for players who enjoy experimenting beyond traditional DPS or support roles.
The Elation Path appears to emphasize unconventional combat triggers and synergy-based damage. Instead of straightforward roles, this path may:
- Enhance follow-up attacks
- Trigger bonus effects under special conditions
- Reward creative team-building strategies
This design could significantly impact how players define the HSR best characters going forward.
HSR 4.0 Banners: New & Rerun Characters
For many players, banners are the heart of every update. Version 4.0 is no exception, with strong expectations around both new units and popular reruns. As always, banner planning is crucial, especially for free-to-play players managing limited resources.
The HSR 4.0 banners are expected to include:
- At least one new 5-star honkai star rail new character, like Yao Guang
- New 4-star additions
- Popular rerun units
Community discussions around HSR upcoming characters leaks continue to grow, and some players are also hoping for an Honkai Star Rail free 5-star event, though this remains unconfirmed.
Where Does Version 4.0 Fit in the Current Update Cycle
With so many versions already released, some players naturally ask where Version 4.0 stands in the broader roadmap. Major version numbers typically signal long-term changes rather than minor additions. Understanding this context helps explain why expectations for 4.0 are so high.
“What HSR update are we on?” Version 4.0 marks the beginning of a new major arc. Historically, X.0 updates introduce a new world, major gameplay systems, and long-term story direction. This makes Version 4.0 one of the most impactful updates in the game’s lifecycle.
Final Thoughts
With so many major features packed into a single update, Version 4.0 is shaping up to be a turning point for Honkai: Star Rail. From exploration to combat and character design, nearly every system is getting meaningful expansion.
Whether you’re a casual player or a long-term planner, preparing early can make a big difference.
Between the Planarcadia New World, the Elation Path, and highly anticipated HSR 4.0 banners, this update is well worth the wait. Keep an eye on the official livestream, manage your resources wisely, and get ready because the countdown to Version 4.0 has officially begun.
FAQs
1.Q: What time does the new HSR update come out?
A: Most Honkai: Star Rail updates go live after scheduled maintenance ends. For Asia servers (UTC+8), updates typically become playable on February 13, 2026, 11:00 AM.
2.Q: What is the Planarcadia New World in HSR 4.0?
A: The Planarcadia New World is the new region introduced in Version 4.0. It features fresh environments, new enemies, expanded lore, and exploration-focused gameplay tied to the next major story.
3.Q: Is Version 4.0 a major update?
A: Yes, it is. As an x.0 patch, Version 4.0 marks the beginning of a new chapter, introducing a new world, gameplay system (Elation Path), story expansion, and major banner releases.
4. Q: Will there be a free 5-star in Honkai Star Rail 4.0?
A: There is no official confirmation yet regarding a Honkai Star Rail free 5-star in Version 4.0. Any promotional rewards will be announced during the livestream or in the patch notes.
5. Q: Are there reliable HSR upcoming characters leaks?
A: While HSR upcoming characters leaks often circulate online before major updates, players should rely on official HoYoverse announcements for accurate banner and character information.












































































































